Psalm 102
It is hard to develop a good understanding of suffering. In the midst of suffering, we may have a hard time thinking clearly. If we have passed through suffering and are on the other side looking on, we tend to become like Job's comforters. In this psalm we find two principles that need to accompany our thinking about suffering. It is by no means exhaustive, nor does it make suffering easy, but it does offer some hope in our darkness.
In verses 1-11 we see deep hardship, likely associated with the exile. In verses 12-13 two points are made. First, God is enthroned forever. God is still in control even in the midst of our tragic suffering and hardship. The psalmist doesn't answer the “why?” questions. But it points out who is always in charge and that His actions are gracious and compassionate. Second, God is working a plan that is beyond our hardship but will use these pains. In verse 15 we see that the Exile was going to result in the pagan nations understanding God's glory. God is still there in our suffering, and He is working out something grand.
“Lord, in the darkness of my suffering, help me to look to You. AMEN.”
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